The Western Sydney Wanderers have come out on top in a 4-3 goalfest in their latest FNSW League One match against SD Raiders.
A maiden first-grade goal from George Daniel seven minutes from time was the decisive moment in a back-and-forth action packed match.
The Wanderers started on the front foot, and almost opened the scoring through Zac Sapsford, whose first time volley went just over the bar.
The visitors weathered the early storm and scored the opening goal in the 8th minute, as Mark Cindric converted a lay-off from close range.
The Wanderers hit back three minutes later with a double punch; Sapsford first produced a calm finish after Alex Badolato had won the ball high up the pitch.
Then just five minutes later the Wanderers’ high press produced more results, as Lopane dispossessed a Raiders defender and was then fouled in the box.
The midfielder stepped up and converted the penalty to put his side ahead.
It continued to be an open game with both sides having chances, and the Raiders levelled the scores in the 42nd minute through Cindric, his powerful finish coming after a solo run.
The boys in Red and Black responded perfectly out of half-time through Alex Badolato, who lashed the ball into the roof of the net after a chaotic sequence in the box.
The Wanderers pushed for a goal that would kill the game, but the away side held them off and eventually punished them on the counter.
Cindric would get his hat-trick in the 74th minute with a volley from the penalty spot.
The Wanderers would ultimately have the last laugh, though, as substitute Daniel found space on the edge of the box from a corner and produced a low and powerful drive that William Loucas with no chance of stopping in the Raiders goal.
The win means the Wanderers stay at the top of the table with just two rounds remaining, they travel east to face St George FC next round.
